Safe Haven Family Shelter

For 33 years, Safe Haven Family Shelter (SHFS) has served as the only shelter-to-housing program in Middle Tennessee that accommodates families experiencing homelessness. SHFS’s mission is “to lead our community’s efforts in order to house, support, empower, and advocate for families experiencing homelessness.” Families receive the following: case management, workforce development, children’s programs and education, individual/group counseling for parents/children, nutrition education and wellness activities, parenting classes, tenant readiness classes, and assistance in obtaining affordable housing. The agency’s goals/outcomes for the year include: 80% of children and teens will participate in therapeutic groups focused on stress reduction, increasing safety, emotional regulation skills and trust building. Utilizing the SDQ, over 80% of participants will report decreased anxiety/stress, better understanding of their peers and increased knowledge of how to handle emotions under pressure outside of the group setting. 90% of parents and children that participate in SHINE (Safe Haven Inspiring Nutritious Eating, Exercise and Emotional Well-Being) will report a decrease in stress and increased knowledge of wellness and nutrition as a result of participating in the wellness program.